The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is concern about the security challenges and the risks that comes with the advancement of technology, particularly the wireless technology.
Speaking at the opening ceremony at the “Telecoms Industry Risk Management Conference, a stakeholders engagement forum organised by the NCC, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Dr Aminu Maida, said that “we stand at the crossroads of tradition and transformation, where emerging technologies and trends present both unprecedented opportunities and challenges.”
He told the stakeholders at the Lagos conference with the theme: “Evolution and Future Risk Management in the Telecoms Industry: Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Trends”, that “the telecommunications industry finds itself at the forefront of innovation, shaping the way we communicate, connect, and conduct business.”
Maida who was represented by the Engr Ubale Maska, Executive Commissioner (Technical Services) of the Commission, said harped on the need for effective risk management saying “as we navigate this dynamic environment, the need becomes increasingly paramount.”
He added: “While we discuss the current landscape of 5G networks, which boast of wider attack surface due to the increased number of connected devices and denser network infrastructure, it is imperative to even cast our gaze into the future.”
According to him, we are witnessing the dawn of 6G technology, the next frontier in wireless communication stressing that “with promises of even faster speeds, lower latency, and groundbreaking applications, 6G has the potential to revolutionize the way we experience connectivity.”
He however, said that with this advancement comes the responsibility to address new risks, from cybersecurity threats to ethical considerations, ensuring that we pave the way for a secure and inclusive digital future.
Maida said: “looking beyond, the prospect of 7G technology also looms on the horizon. As we contemplate the possibilities, we must acknowledge that with each generational leap, we face not only technological advancements but also a fresh set of challenges. Anticipating and managing risks associated with 7G will require collaboration, innovation, and a proactive approach to ensure the seamless integration of this technology into our interconnected world.”
He noted that in addition to the evolution of connectivity, “we must consider the implications of emerging technologies such as quantum technologies (computing, sensing, and communications), advanced artificial intelligence, and Block Chain (distributed ledger) technologies.”
While noting that they also introduce complexities that demand careful consideration in our risk management strategies, he however assured that the NCC remains committed to fostering an environment that encourages innovation while prioritising the security and stability of telecoms infrastructure.
The NCC boss further stated that “as we navigate through 5G and the uncharted territory of the next generations of wireless technologies, collaborative efforts among regulators, industry players, and other stakeholders become even more crucial for sharing best practices, threat intelligence, resources and implementing robust risk management strategies.”
Kelechi Nwankwo of Head, Corporate Planning, Strategy & Risk Management of the NCC, said in his opening address that the fast-disruptive world of the telecoms industry has witnessed convergence of diverse technological advancements with the potential of reshaping our future. From 5G networks, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Artificial Intelligence (AI), to Cloud Computing and beyond, the possibilities are limitless.
However, he noted with the great opportunities, comes great risks, “and it is our collective responsibility to address these risks and possibly safeguarding the industry’s growth and sustainability.”
